NHH spreads the word on NACI-approved RSV serum
Northumberland County
Northumberland Hills Hospital is spreading the word on recommendations from the National Advisory Council on Immunization about a new RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) preventative.
Northumberland Hills Hospital has joined care providers across Ontario in offering a new serum that can help prevent Respiratory Syncytial Viurus infections in infants.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization has recommended Beyfortus® (Nirsevimab), an injectable serum (also known a a monoclonal antibody shot that offers immediate protection for infants by supplying the body with ready-made antibodies to create passive immunity – and, as a result, Beyfortus® is not considered to be a vaccine.
Beyfortus® has been reported to provide five months of protection, which could span the duration of RSV season, typically from November to April.
NHH Maternal Child Care Chief Dr, Erin Pepper describes passive immunity as being given the antibodies directly, instead of having them created through an immune response.
“Passive immunity against RSV is critical for infant, who are still developing their immune systems and will benefit from immediate protection,” Dr. Pepper added.
“RSV is a leading cause of hospital admissions for infants. We are optimistic that Beyfortus® will greatly help reduce emergency-department visits for this vulnerable age group.
“At NHH, Beyfortus® is offered to all families after delivery, and will be administered prior to discharge based on consent.”
On the recommendation of NACI, Beyfortus® can be offered to any infant entering or born during their first RSV season.
For the current 2024-2025 RSV season, Beyfortus® is publicly funded for infants and children who are residents of Ontario and meet any of the following criteria:
Born in 2024 prior to the RSV season
Born during the 2024-2025 RSV season
Children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable from severe RSV disease through their second RSV season with specific chronic medical conditions
Pregnant adults can choose to have the RSV vaccination ABRYSVO® in their third trimester, in which case Beyfortus® is not necessary for the protection of their infant. NACI recommends Beyfortus® be given to infants over ABRYSVO® in pregnant individuals.
At NHH, infants are eligible to receive Beyfortus® prior to discharge from the hospital. Expecting parents and new families can also speak with their primary-care physician to learn more about Beyfortus®, or contact the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577 ext. 1507.
